Quick Links
Other Links
The National Field Archery Society Information on Field Archery.
The
British Longbow Society
Information on the Longbow Society.
Grand National Archery Society Information on the Longbow Society.
Somerset Archery Information on Somerset County Archery Association.
Our History
Wellington Bowmen was the idea of Rachel Fenwick, John and Julie Morton in October 2001.
Rachel being so successful in archery in previous years has been keen to put back into the sport which she loves so much. In October 2002 they received a grant from the 'Awards for All' that enabled them to buy equipment and start the Wellington Bowmen Club.
This is when some of the members joined; such as Ivor Thomas, Robert Wragg, Alan Shepherd and Steve Corner.
The Wellington Rugby Club was then approached, and it was agreed that they would host the Archery club. The Rugby club is still used for indoor shooting today, held every Tuesday night during the winter.
In 2003 and with the club continuing to expand, a larger shooting area was required. Graham, Ivor and Rachel approached Mrs Faull, the Headmistress of Court Fields Community School, to see if some arrangement could be made over the use of their sports field. After some negotiations Mrs Faull was delighted to let the club use the school’s facilities to promote Archery. Today you can see the club members shooting in the field of Court Fields every Sunday afternoon during the summer as well as every Tuesday and Thursday evenings, weather permitting.
New to Archery
GETTING STARTED
OK, you do not have equipment of your own yet, but you turn up at the field hoping that the particular club bow you that you like is not being used by someone else. You’re also hoping that someone will give you a hand settling in and give you the advice you need.
First of all - ARRIVE EARLY! Few club archers have patience with the person who arrives just as shooting is about to start and expects them to chase round finding them their bows and arrows etc, or even set up a target at a different distance to the others.
On Club days most people are shooting set rounds and starting on time means finishing on time. This can be especially important in the winter when daylight fades fast.
We want you to join in as soon as possible, but early on you will not be able to cope with the longer distances. Don’t worry, as a target can be set up closer to the line for you, but you will still shoot with the rest of use. If there are enough people shooting try to be in the centre of the group, then you’ll not feel left out and the other more experienced archers will help you out more readily if you ask. Don't try to shoot on your own.
As a beginner you will miss the target on a regular basis. Don’t let it upset you and don’t be surprised if one of your arrows goes to ground. If this happens then it must be found (at all times) members will help you to search, but you may be asked to let shooting continue and to shoot a spare until later, when the search can continue, remember it must be found. Be prepared by having at least one spare arrow with you. You will not be able to borrow.
Organisation of Shooting
Unlike some clubs our shooting is fairly formal on Club days. A Field Captain is in charge of shooting at all times. They will also organise safety, target positions, shooting lines and meet any visitors. Making tea (a welcome break in the winter) and locking up is shared by all senior members and a rota is usually drawn up by the Club Captain. Your turn will come and the routine will be explained by the other members, so don’t worry about it.
New to Archery
GETTING HELP
Although you must expect to miss the target sometimes, do not plod on getting worse and more and more disheartened. If you need help don’t be afraid to ask one of the more experienced archers. They may be able to point out an obvious archery fault that will help you get back on track. We all have occasions when things just don’t go well, and one of the reasons we shoot together is so that we can talk to other archers (walking the line, we all do it).
Most clubs have qualified Coaches available, but it is an accepted rule within the club that we don’t go around offering advice. Some people would rather sort things out themselves and may not welcome another pointing out their faults. If someone asks if you mind whether they point out something, let them know if you welcome the help or not. They may only be pointing out that the bow limbs are upside down. Fairly soon you will be able to make up your own mind whether you need help. Remember - everyone has their own pet theory and taking everyone’s advice could be disastrous.
It is often a good thing to consult with someone with the same shape or size equipment. If someone is 5ft 2in with a stiff back and short neck, they have no idea of the problems confronting someone 6ft tall who may have one leg shorter than the other.